Duolingo is arguably the most recognized language learning app, known for its game-like interface that makes starting a new language feel fun and accessible. Through points, streaks, and leaderboards, it excels at motivating users to build a consistent daily practice habit. The bite-sized lessons are ideal for learning vocabulary and basic sentence structures on the go. However, the platform offers weak explicit grammar explanations and limited opportunities for real speaking practice, meaning its content can feel shallow for those aiming to move beyond a beginner level. It serves best as an engaging starting point or a vocabulary-building supplement.

Readlang helps you learn a language by reading authentic content from across the web. As a browser extension and web app, it allows you to click on any word or phrase you don’t know on a webpage to get an instant translation. These translated words are automatically saved as flashcards for later review via spaced repetition. It is an exceptional tool for intermediate-to-advanced learners looking to transition to native materials and expand their vocabulary contextually, but it is primarily a reading and vocabulary tool with no speaking component.